The Frightening Health Scare Sasha Obama Survived As A Child | Michelle Obama, Barack Obama

The Frightening Health Scare Sasha Obama Survived As A Child

Sasha Obama, the youngest daughter of former President Barack Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama, is now a college student at the University of Michigan. But when she was just seven years old, she faced a terrifying health scare that could have changed her life forever.

In her memoir, Becoming, Michelle Obama revealed that Sasha was diagnosed with meningitis, a serious infection of the membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord. Meningitis can cause fever, headache, stiff neck, nausea, vomiting, confusion, and even death. It can be caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, or other organisms.

Michelle Obama wrote that Sasha contracted meningitis during the summer of 2008, when Barack Obama was campaigning for the presidency. She said that Sasha had been feeling unwell for a few days, but they thought it was just a cold. One night, however, Sasha woke up crying and complaining of a sore throat. Michelle Obama took her to the pediatrician the next morning, where she was given antibiotics for a possible strep throat.

But later that day, Sasha’s condition worsened. She developed a high fever and became lethargic and irritable. Michelle Obama rushed her back to the doctor, who immediately sent them to the hospital. There, Sasha underwent a spinal tap, a procedure that involves inserting a needle into the lower back to collect fluid from the spinal canal. The fluid is then tested for signs of infection.

The test confirmed that Sasha had meningitis caused by a type of bacteria called Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib). This bacteria can be prevented by a vaccine that is routinely given to children in the United States. However, Sasha had not received the vaccine because she was allergic to one of its components.

Sasha was admitted to the intensive care unit and started on intravenous antibiotics. Michelle Obama stayed by her side, while Barack Obama flew in from his campaign trail to join them. They were both terrified and worried about their daughter’s fate.

Fortunately, Sasha responded well to the treatment and recovered after a few days. She was discharged from the hospital and returned home with her parents and sister Malia. Michelle Obama wrote that the experience made them appreciate their family more and realize how fragile life can be.

Sasha Obama has since grown up to be a healthy and happy young woman. She graduated from Sidwell Friends School in Washington, D.C., in 2019 and enrolled at the University of Michigan later that year. She has also been spotted enjoying music festivals, hanging out with friends, and dating a fellow student.

Sasha Obama’s meningitis scare was a frightening ordeal for her and her family, but they overcame it with courage and love. They are an inspiring example of how to face adversity with grace and resilience.